Dennis Pitta is an unrestricted free agent, and the Ravens new offensive coordinator is impressed.

The fifth-year tight end is an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but he could be in store for a big year if he re-signs with the Ravens. Kubiak has a history of developing and targeting tight ends, and Pitta stands to gain from his role in the new system.

“I remember studying Dennis, and I’m very impressed with him as a player,” Kubiak said during Monday’s press conference. “I know he went through a tough year this year with getting injured, but that position has always been a big part of our offense. I’m sure it won’t be any different.”

Kubiak’s offense is traditionally built around establishing the run and then capitalizing with play-action passes on the bootleg. Tight ends are critical for that kind of system – as blockers and pass catchers – and Pitta would continue to be a prime target for quarterback Joe Flacco.

“If Pitta is smart, he should re-sign with the Ravens because Kubiak loves to throw to tight ends,” said Houston Chronicle reporter John McClain, who covered the Texans for Kubiak’s eight years as the head coach.

“The tight ends are going to catch a lot of passes and get the ball in the red zone a lot. In 2012, Kubiak ran more two-tight end formations than any team in the league.”

The numbers show that Kubiak consistently featured the tight end during his time as a play caller in Houston and Denver. Under Kubiak, Texans tight end Owen Daniels was a two-time Pro Bowler and Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe had the best seasons of his career in Denver.

By comparison, Pitta’s best season came in 2012 when he caught 61 passes for 669 yards and seven touchdowns.

In addition to Kubiak’s involvement with tight ends, the Ravens also have a new tight ends coach for the first time under Head Coach John Harbaugh. Brian Pariani took over for Wade Harman, who had been with the Ravens since 1999.

Pariani has worked under Kubiak throughout their NFL careers, coaching the tight ends in both Houston and Denver.

“Brian has earned a reputation as one of the NFL’s top tight ends coaches, and we’re excited that he was available and willing to join us,” Harbaugh said. “We are making changes on offense, and Brian will be able to help teach and implement them.”

Please Note

The opinions, analysis and/or speculation expressed on BaltimoreRavens.com represent those of individual authors, and unless quoted or clearly labeled as such, do not represent the opinions or policies of the Baltimore Ravens' organization, front office staff, coaches and executives. Authors' views are formulated independently from any inside knowledge and/or conversations with Ravens officials, including the coaches and scouts, unless otherwise noted.